Literature Review Format: APA, MLA, and Chicago The essay format you use should adhere to the citation style preferred by your instructor. Seek clarification from your instructor for several other components as well to establish a desired literature review format: How many sources should you review, and what kind of sources should they be (published materials, journal articles, or websites)? What format should you use to cite the sources? How long should the review be? Should your review consist of a summary, synthesis, or a personal critique? Should your review include subheadings or background information for your sources? If you want to format your paper in APA style, then follow these rules: Use 1-inch page margins. Unless provided with other instructions, use double-spacing throughout the whole text. Make sure you choose a readable font. The preferred font for APA papers is Times New Roman set to 12-point size. Include a header at the top of every page (in capital letters). The page header must be a shortened version of your essay title and limited to 50 characters, including spacing and punctuation. Put page numbers in the upper right corner of every page. When shaping your literature review outline in APA, don't forget to include a title page. This page should include the paper's name, the author's name, and the institutional affiliation. Your title must be typed with upper and lowercase letters and centered in the upper part of the page; use no more than 12 words, and avoid using abbreviations and useless words. For MLA style text, apply the following guidelines: Use 1-inch page margins. Double your spacing across the entire paper. Set ½-inch indents for each new paragraph. The preferred font for MLA papers is Times New Roman set to 12-point size. Include a header at the top of your paper's first page or on the title page (note that MLA style does not require you to have a title page, but you are allowed to decide to include one). A header in this format should include your full name; the name of your instructor; the name of the class, course, or section number; and the due date of the assignment. Include a running head in the top right corner of each page in your paper. Place it one inch from the page's right margin and half an inch from the top margin. Only include your last name and the page number separated by a space in the running head. Do not put the abbreviation p. before page numbers. Finally, if you are required to write a literature review in Chicago style, here are the key rules to follow: Set page margins to no less than 1 inch. Use double spacing across the entire text, except when it comes to table titles, figure captions, notes, blockquotes, and entries within the bibliography or References. Do not put spaces between paragraphs. Make sure you choose a clear and easily-readable font. The preferred fonts for Chicago papers are Times New Roman and Courier, set to no less than 10-point size, but preferably to 12-point size. A cover (title) page should include your full name, class information, and the date. Center the cover page and place it one-third below the top of the page. Place page numbers in the upper right corner of each page, including the cover page. Read also about harvard format - popular style used in papers. Source: